The band's final notes faded away, and the crowd's laughter and applause filled the air. Tiger gazed at his friend, still unconscious on the floor. Rose walked over, placing a gentle hand on his shoulder. "He'll be fine, just let him rest," she said, taking a seat beside Tiger.
Tiger took a swig of alcohol, his eyes locked on Rose. "So, how have you been? You left without telling me." His words were laced with discomfort, and Rose's expression softened.
"Says the guy who ended our friendship after his mom died," Rose replied, her voice tinged with sadness. Tiger's eyes dropped, and a flashback of their past flashed before his eyes – the day he pushed Rose away, causing her to hit her head and faint.
"I shouldn't be talking to you right now," Tiger said, standing up, his guilt and pain evident. But Rose grabbed his uniform, pulling him back down. "It wasn't your fault," she said with a warm smile. "I should have read the situation instead of forcing my way in."
Tiger's words stumbled out, "So, how's school and your parents?" Rose's face fell, and she shifted her gaze. "I'd rather not talk about it," she said softly. Tiger nodded understandingly. "Okay, I won't pry. But if you think I can help, just call me." He offered a fist bump, and Rose smiled, returning the gesture.
Just then, a guitar bag smacked Tiger on the head. "Ouch, watch it!" he exclaimed, turning to face the culprit. A mysterious girl stood before him, their gazes locking in a silent challenge.
"Do I know you?" Tiger asked, his eyes narrowing. The girl's expression remained calm and cold. "You have the wrong person," she said, her tone unwavering.
Tiger's gaze intensified. "How do you know who I'm thinking about?" The girl's response was swift. "You're drunk; you could be thinking of anyone. Figure it out yourself." With that, she turned and left.
"Who is she?" Tiger asked Rose, watching the girl disappear into the crowd. Rose shrugged. "I'm not sure, but she's a mystery, all right." As she finished speaking, Benjamin stirred, slowly regaining consciousness.